The Ross Worm – Sabellaria spinulosa is a species of marine worm known for its unique tube-building behavior. This fascinating creature plays a significant role in its ecosystem, contributing to the structure and biodiversity of the coastal environments it inhabits.
Description & Characteristics
The Sabellaria spinulosa, commonly known as the Ross Worm, is a small, segmented worm with a distinctive cylindrical body. It can reach a maximum size of about 5 centimeters in length. The worm’s body is covered in numerous short, stiff bristles called chaetae, which provide support and help in anchoring the worm within its tube. The Sabellaria spinulosa has a distinct head with a pair of tentacles used for feeding.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Sabellaria spinulosa is typically found in intertidal and subtidal zones, often in areas with strong currents. This worm is known to inhabit rocky shores and sandy bottoms, where it can construct its characteristic tubes. It is a common sight in the infralittoral zone, which extends from the low tide mark to depths of around 40 meters. The Sabellaria spinulosa is found in the temperate waters of the North Atlantic Ocean, particularly along the coasts of Europe, North America, and the Mediterranean Sea.
Taxonomy
The species Sabellaria spinulosa belongs to the Class Polychaeta, which is a large group of segmented worms with a wide range of body forms and habitats. Within the Polychaeta, Sabellaria spinulosa is a member of the Sabellariidae family, known for their tube-dwelling habits.
Feeding
The Sabellaria spinulosa is a filter feeder, using its tentacles to capture microscopic food particles from the water column. Its diet consists mainly of phytoplankton and zooplankton, small organisms that drift in the water. The worm’s feeding mechanism is known as suspension feeding, where it passively filters food particles from the surrounding water.
Image References